conceal
kuhn-SEEL
Conceal (verb) means to hide something from sight or keep it secret from others. Example: “He tried to conceal his nervousness during the interview.”
verb
1
To hide something from sight or keep it secret from others.
"He tried to conceal the truth about his health."
"He tried to conceal his nervousness during the interview."
"The smugglers concealed the goods inside hollowed-out furniture."
"Utah has allowed for permitless open and concealed carry of weapons since 2021. But before the passage of HB 128, firearms had to be concealed when carried on college campuses."
— Abené Clayton, Utah campus open carry law under fresh scrutiny after Charlie Kirk shooting (2025)
How to use conceal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo hide something, whether it's a physical object or a feeling, fact, or intention.
Common pairings
conceal the truth
conceal a weapon
conceal one's feelings
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- conceals
- Past tense
- concealed
Fill the gap
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He tried to _____ his nervousness during the interview.
Etymology
From Old French conceler, "to hide or disguise," ultimately from Latin concēlāre, "to carefully hide."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for conceal
See all rhymes for conceal →Frequently asked questions
What does “conceal” mean?
The word “conceal” means to hide something from sight or keep it secret from others. In plain terms, to hide something, whether it's a physical object or a feeling, fact, or intention.
How do you pronounce “conceal”?
“Conceal” is pronounced kuhn-SEEL (/kənˈsil/ in IPA).
How do you use “conceal” in a sentence?
Here is “conceal” used in a sentence: “He tried to conceal his nervousness during the interview.”
What is the opposite of “conceal”?
The opposite of “conceal” — its antonyms — are reveal, uncover and admit.
What part of speech is “conceal”?
“Conceal” is a verb.
Where does the word “conceal” come from?
The word “conceal” comes from Latin. From Old French conceler, "to hide or disguise," ultimately from Latin concēlāre, "to carefully hide.".
Is “conceal” a common word?
“Conceal” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
